Display device mountable on an automotive vehicle, and method

ABSTRACT

A display device mountable on an automotive wiper arm positioned on the rear of an automotive vehicle, comprising a display panel having a front side for presentation of text or graphics and a back side for mounting a connector; arm-connector for affixing said display device to said automotive wiper arm; shaft for linking said arm-connector to said display panel; a shaft-connector for affixing said shaft to said display panel, said shaft-connector comprising part of said shaft; display-connector affixing said shaft to said display panel, said display-connector comprising said connector positioned on said display panel backside; wherein said shaft-connector and said display-connector are configured to lock together, substantially preventing separation of said display panel from said shaft during motion of said wiper arm during operation, wherein said arm-connector is configured to clasp said wiper arm and maintain sufficient pressure to avoid substantial rotation of said shaft around said wiper arm.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 61/528,365 filed on Aug. 29, 2011 and U.S. ProvisionalPatent Application No. 61/610,836 filed on Mar. 14, 2012 in the name ofArthur Strout, et al., which are expressly incorporated herein byreference each in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention is related to display devices used to present textand graphics, and mountable on an automotive vehicle. More particularly,the present invention is directed to an apparatus mountable on a wiperarm and other attachment points of an automotive vehicle and associatedmethod(s) for displaying text and graphics in physical form media suchas that used to display personal messages and advertising.

2. Background of the Invention and Related Art

The purpose of displaying physical form media on automotive vehiclesvaries widely, and may be for typical intentions such as delivering acommercial message or impression, asserting a personal belief orperspective, supporting and promoting an organization or school, orsimply for personal pleasure. In general, the intent of placing physicalform media on an automotive vehicle is to capture the attention ofobservers so that the text or graphic displayed delivers the intendedmessage; often reflecting the passion and interests of the presenter.Positioning of the physical form media on an automotive vehicle maydepend on the target audience, such as pedestrians or other motorists.The desired period of observation may also be a factor in selecting theplacement and type of physical form media, with three dimensional mediaplaced on the top of a vehicle and two dimensional media placed on therear of a vehicle providing relatively greater opportunity forobservation during vehicle motion away from an observing pedestrian orby a following motorist.

Physical representations of personal messages and advertisinginformation displayed on automotive vehicles appear in many forms in avariety of media, such as decals, magnetic signs, vehicle graphics,window mounted objects and signs, and banner displays. Some presentationmedia are designed to affix magnetically to the sides or rear of anautomotive vehicle, and may be configured as flat two dimensional signs.Three dimensional presentation media, such as a banner display, is oftenmounted on top of a vehicle cab and may be permanently mounted withfasteners or temporarily mounted often magnetically or with suction cupsand straps. Some presentation media may be internally illuminated orback lit to enable night time observation. Mounting a three dimensionaldisplay at the rear of a vehicle in a trailer hitch receiver requiresuse of a more costly fabrication material such as steel. Decals andvehicle graphics are typically applied to the sides and/or rear of anautomotive vehicle, affixed to the windows or metal surfaces. Windowmounted objects and signs may be affixed internally to the vehicle orexternally by suction cup mounts or window glass edge clips.Effectiveness of physical form media in commanding attention ofobservers and delivering the intended message often varies with the typeof physical form media employed and its placement on the vehicle, aswell as message content and format. Marketing research has shown thatthree dimensional advertising is more memorable than two dimensionaladvertising. As reported by Darwin Creative (http://darwincreative.com),58% of observers recalled seeing 3D displays as compared to 7% recalling2D displays.

Magnetic signs, vehicle graphics, and decals do not provide the meansfor three dimensional displays on automotive vehicles. Three dimensionalbanners are generally flat signs mounted vertically with respect to thetop or rear deck of a vehicle. While banner displays may be threedimensional in shape, such as the temporary displays typically used ontop of privately owned vehicles employed for pizza delivery, the messagedisplayed is not three dimensional. Three dimensional displays such asfigurines are often large and costly. Mounting a three dimensionaldisplay on top of a vehicle is generally not at the eye level of anobserver in a following vehicle and may require a physically largerdevice and message to assure capturing their attention and deliveringthe intended message. In addition, such a display on top of a vehicle issubject to high wind pressure during motion of the vehicle, requiringstronger attachment points than if less wind pressure were present,which can increase cost when compared to a smaller device that employsless substantial attachment mechanisms. Thus, a three dimensionaldisplay device mountable on the rear of an automotive vehicle, exposingthe device to relatively less wind pressure, and located substantiallyat eye level of an observer in a following vehicle is needed to providelower cost and effective physical media for presenting text and graphicmessages in personal and commercial applications.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to a broad aspect, the present invention provides a displaydevice mountable on an automotive wiper arm, comprising a display panelhaving a front side for presentation of text or graphics and a back sidefor positioning one of a rotable connector or fixed connector, whereinsaid one of a rotable or fixed connector is configured to be attachableto said automotive wiper arm.

According to another broad aspect, the present invention provides adisplay device mountable on an automotive vehicle, comprising a displaypanel having a front side for presentation of text or graphics and aback side for mounting a connector. An arm-connector may be used foraffixing the display device to at least a wiper arm of the automotivevehicle, along with a shaft linking the arm-connector to the displaypanel. A shaft-connector provides for affixing the shaft to the displaypanel, the shaft-connector comprising part of the shaft. Adisplay-connector affixes the shaft to the display panel, thedisplay-connector comprising the connector positioned on the displaypanel backside. The shaft-connector and the display-connector areconfigured to lock together after one is connected to the other,preventing separation of the display panel from the shaft during motionof the automotive vehicle and rotational motion of the wiper arm. Thearm-connector may be configured to affix to the automotive wiper arm orother connection point and maintain sufficient pressure to avoidrotation of the shaft around and generally perpendicular to theautomotive wiper arm or other connection point as a result of airflowpressure on the display panel during vehicular motion.

In other aspects of the present invention, the display-connector may bepositioned asymmetrically on the backside of the display panel. Inaddition, the shaft-connector and the display-connector may berotation-point connectors configured to allow the display panel torotate on the shaft during movement of the automotive wiper arm.Asymmetric positioning of the display-connector and use of rotationpoint connectors serves to maintain orientation of the text or graphicspresent on the display panel relatively level with respect to the groundduring rotational movement of the automotive wiper arm. Where a selectedattachment point on a vehicle remains substantially stationary withrespect to the vehicle, a rotation-point connector may be mechanicallyaltered to maintain the display panel in a relatively fixed position.

According to a another broad aspect, the present invention provides adisplay device mountable at least on an automotive wiper arm, comprisinga display panel having a front side for presentation of text or graphicsand a back side for positioning a connector. An arm-connector affixesthe display device to the automotive wiper arm or other connection pointand a shaft links the arm-connector to the display panel. A firstrotation-point connector affixes the shaft to the display panel, therotation-point connector comprising part of the shaft. A secondrotation-point connector affixed the shaft to the display panel, thesecond rotation-point connector comprising the connector positioned onthe display panel backside. The first rotation-point connector isconfigured to insert into the second rotation-point connector and lockinto the second rotation-point connector substantially preventingseparation after connecting the first rotation-point connector to thesecond rotation-point connector. The first and second rotation-pointconnectors are configured to allow the display panel to rotate on theshaft during rotational movement of the automotive wiper arm.

In another aspect of the present invention, the second rotation-pointconnector may be positioned asymmetrically on the backside of thedisplay panel, wherein orientation of the text or the graphics presenton the display panel may be maintained relatively level with respect tothe ground during movement of the automotive wiper arm.

In another aspect of the present invention, the display panel may becomprised of semi-flexible plastic material and may have a thickness inthe range of 0.25 inches to 1.5 inches, the thickness being needed tomaintain shape of the display panel depending on the stiffnesscharacteristics of the semi-flexible plastic and the shape of thedisplay panel.

In another aspect of the present invention, the display panel may becomprised of relatively rigid plastic material having a thickness in therange of 0.2 inches to 0.6 inches, the thickness being needed tomaintain shape of the display panel depending on the stiffnesscharacteristics of the rigid plastic and the shape of the display panel.

In another aspect of the present invention, the display panel iscomprised of a plastic material configured with raised ridges on thebackside to stiffen the display panel, the raised ridges radiating outfrom the second rotation-point connector.

In another aspect of the present invention, the display panel may beshaped in three dimensions to substantially conform to the shape of textand/or graphics presented on the display panel.

In another aspect of the present invention, the display panel mayfurther comprise an electronic display enabling dynamic presentation orreconfiguration of text and/or graphics on the display panel, and whichelectronic display may be powered by an internal battery, the vehicleelectrical system, solar cells, or a combination of these power sources.

In another aspect of the present invention, the first rotation-pointconnector may be conical in shape having an apex at a forward end awayfrom the shaft and a base diameter greater than a shaft diameter at thepoint where the first rotation-point connector and the shaft arefastened together. In addition, the second rotation-point connector maycomprise a conical shaped receptor configured to receive the firstrotation-point connector, the second rotation-point connector furthercomprising an integrated base ring situated at the base dimension of theconical shaped receptor, the base ring having an inner circular openingwith a diameter less than the base diameter. The base ring may beconfigured with slots that allow expansion of the conical shapedreceptor during insertion of the first rotation-point connector.

In yet another aspect of the present invention, the first rotation-pointconnector may comprise a conical shaped tip having an apex at a forwardend situated away from the shaft and a plurality of flexible tipextenders divided from each other and extending angularly back towardthe shaft and away from the conical shaped tip, the plurality offlexible tip extenders configured in a conical shape having an apexcomprised of the conical shaped tip and a base diameter at outer ends ofthe flexible tip extenders greater than a shaft diameter at the pointwhere the first rotation-point connector and the shaft are fastenedtogether. In addition, the second rotation-point connector may comprisea conical shaped receptor configured to receive the first rotation-pointconnector, the second rotation-point connector further comprising anintegrated base ring situated at the base dimension of the conicalshaped receptor, the base ring having an inner circular opening with adiameter less than the base diameter comprised of the outer ends of theflexible tip extenders.

In another aspect of the present invention, the display device ismounted on an automotive wiper arm that is a component of an automotivewindshield wiper system situated on the rear of an automotive vehicle,the automotive vehicle typically being one within a class of vehiclescomprising one of sport utility vehicles, cross-over vehicles, trucks,vans, and recreational vehicles. In addition, the display panel of thedisplay device may be weighted to provide a righting moment and promotea pendulum effect substantially positioning the second rotation-pointconnector above a lower portion of the display panel throughout therange of motion of the automotive wiper arm during operation of theautomotive windshield wiper system.

According to a another broad aspect, the present invention provides adisplay device mountable on an automotive wiper arm, comprising adisplay panel having a front side for presentation of text or graphicsand a back side for positioning a connector, an arm-connector foraffixing the display device to the automotive wiper arm, a shaft forlinking the arm-connector to the display panel, a shaft-connector foraffixing the shaft to the display panel, the shaft-connector comprisingpart of the shaft, and a display-connector for affixing the shaft to thedisplay panel, the display-connector comprising the connector positionedon the display panel backside. The arm-connector is configured to attachto the automotive wiper arm and maintain sufficient connective pressureto avoid rotation of the shaft around and perpendicular to theautomotive wiper arm as a result of airflow pressure on the displaypanel during vehicular motion. The shaft-connector is a firstrotation-point connector and the display-connector is a secondrotation-point connector, and the second rotation-point connector ispositioned asymmetrically on said backside of the display panel. Thefirst rotation-point connector is configured to insert into the secondrotation-point connector and lock into the second rotation-pointconnector substantially preventing separation after connecting the firstrotation-point connector to the second rotation-point connector. Thefirst and second rotation-point connectors are configured to allow thedisplay panel to rotate on the shaft during rotational movement of theautomotive wiper arm operated by the windshield wiper system.

In another aspect of the present invention, the first rotation-pointconnector may be conical in shape having an apex at a forward end awayfrom the shaft and a base diameter greater than a shaft diameter at thepoint where the first rotation-point connector and the shaft arefastened together. In addition, the second rotation-point connector maycomprise a conical shaped receptor configured to receive the firstrotation-point connector, the second rotation-point connector furthercomprising an integrated base ring situated at the base dimension of theconical shaped receptor, the base ring having an inner circular openingwith a diameter less than the base diameter. The base ring may beconfigured with slots that allow expansion of the conical shapedreceptor during insertion of the first rotation-point connector.

In another aspect of the present invention, the first rotation-pointconnector may comprise a conical shaped tip having an apex at a forwardend situated away from the shaft and a plurality of flexible tipextenders divided from each other and extending angularly back towardthe shaft and away from the conical shaped tip, the plurality offlexible tip extenders configured in a conical shape having an apexcomprised of the conical shaped tip and a base diameter at outer ends ofthe flexible tip extenders greater than a shaft diameter at the pointwhere the first rotation-point connector and the shaft are fastenedtogether. In addition, the second rotation-point connector may comprisea conical shaped receptor configured to receive the first rotation-pointconnector, the second rotation-point connector further comprising anintegrated base ring situated at the base dimension of the conicalshaped receptor, the base ring having an inner circular opening with adiameter less than the base diameter comprised of the outer ends of thepoint extenders.

In another aspect of the present invention, the display panel may beweighted to provide a righting moment and promote a pendulum effectsubstantially positioning the second rotation-point connector above alower portion of the display throughout the range of motion of theautomotive wiper arm during operation of the automotive windshield wipersystem.

In another aspect of the present invention, the first rotation-pointconnector may comprise a conical shaped tip having an apex at a forwardend situated away from the shaft and a plurality of flexible tipextenders divided from each other and extending angularly back towardthe shaft and away from the conical shaped tip, the plurality offlexible tip extenders configured in a conical shape having an apexcomprised of the conical shaped tip and a base diameter at outer ends ofthe flexible tip extenders greater than a shaft diameter at the pointwhere the first rotation-point connector and the shaft are fastenedtogether. In addition, the second rotation-point connector may comprisea cylindrical hole penetrating through and asymmetrically positioned onthe display panel and configured to receive the first rotation-pointconnector, the second rotation-point connector having an inner circularopening with a diameter less than the base diameter comprised of theouter ends of the flexible tip extenders. In addition, the shaft may beconfigured with an enlargement of the shaft diameter positioned awayfrom the apex tip and flexible tip extenders to provide a stop againstwhich the back side of the display panel can rest.

In another aspect of the present invention, the first rotation-pointconnector may comprise a conical shaped tip having an apex at a forwardend situated away from the shaft and a base diameter greater than ashaft diameter at the point where the first rotation-point connector andthe shaft are fastened together. In addition, the second rotation-pointconnector may comprise a cylindrical hole penetrating through andasymmetrically positioned on the display panel and configured to receivethe first rotation-point connector, the second rotation-point connectorhaving an inner circular opening with a diameter less than the basediameter of the first rotation-point connector. In addition, the shaftmay be configured with an enlargement of the shaft diameter positionedaway from the apex tip to provide a stop against which the back side ofthe display panel can rest.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a non-limiting diagram showing the apparatus of the presentinvention as it may typically be positioned on a wiper arm of awindshield wiper system located on the rear of a sport utility vehicle,and how the text and graphics presented on the display panel may remainrelatively level during rotational motion of the wiper arm, provided thedisplay-connector is position asymmetrically and/or the lower portion ofthe display panel is weighted.

FIG. 2 is a non-limiting diagram showing the display panel with adisplay-connector positioned substantially centered on the back side andtwo configurations of the shaft with shaft-connector and arm-connector.

FIG. 3 is a non-limiting diagram showing the display panel with anasymmetrically positioned display-connector on the back side and twoconfigurations of the shaft with shaft-connector and arm-connector.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a non-limiting cross-section of adisplay-connector positioned on the back side of the display panel.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a non-limiting cross section of adisplay-connector penetrating through the display panel and aconfiguration of the shaft with a diameter enlargement providing a stopfor the display panel.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing four non-limiting examples of display panelsof various shapes each mounted on an automotive wiper arm.

FIG. 7 is a non-limiting diagram showing the apparatus of the presentinvention mounted on other attachment points of an automotive vehicle.

FIG. 8A is a non-limiting diagram showing the apparatus of the presentinvention mounted on a wiper arm and configured with two display panels.

FIG. 8B is a non-limiting diagram showing a top-view of a dual shaftconnector bar with shaft connectors inserted into display-connectorspositioned on the back side of two display panels; a connector adaptoris also shown.

FIG. 9 is a non-limiting diagram showing a right-angled shaftconfiguration with shaft-connector and a snap-connector for connectingto a wiper motor shaft.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

In brief: FIG. 1 is a non-limiting drawing showing the apparatus of thepresent invention as it may typically be positioned on a wiper arm of awindshield wiper system located on the rear of a sport utility vehicle,and how the text and graphics presented on the display panel may remainrelatively level during rotational motion of the wiper arm, provided thedisplay-connector is connected as a rotation-point connector positionedasymmetrically and/or the lower portion of the display panel isweighted. If the display-connector is substantially centered on the backside of the display panel, and the display panel is not asymmetricallyweighted, the orientation of the display panel will remain substantiallyunchanged with respect to the wiper arm as the wiper arm movesrotationally during operation of the windshield wiper system.

FIG. 2 is a non-limiting diagram showing the display panel with adisplay-connector positioned substantially centered on the back side andtwo configurations of the shaft with shaft-connector and arm-connector.The display-connector affixes the shaft to the display panel, thedisplay-connector comprising the connector positioned on the displaypanel backside. The shaft-connector and the display-connector areconfigured to lock together after one is connected to the other,preventing separation of the display panel from the shaft during motionof the automotive wiper arm. The arm-connector is configured to claspthe automotive wiper arm and maintain sufficient pressure to avoidrotation of the shaft around and generally perpendicular to theautomotive wiper arm.

FIG. 3 is a non-limiting diagram showing the display panel with anasymmetrically positioned display-connector on the back side and twoconfigurations of the shaft with shaft-connector and arm-connector. Thedisplay-connector affixes the shaft to the display panel, thedisplay-connector comprising the connector positioned on the displaypanel backside. The shaft-connector and the display-connector areconfigured to lock together after one is connected to the other,preventing separation of the display panel from the shaft during motionof the automotive wiper arm. The arm-connector is configured to claspthe automotive wiper arm and maintain sufficient pressure to avoidrotation of the shaft around and generally perpendicular to theautomotive wiper arm.

FIG. 4 is a non-limiting diagram showing the cross-section of thedisplay-connector on the back side of the display panel. Thedisplay-connector is conical in shape and configured to receive theshaft-connector. The display-connector further comprises an integratedbase ring situated at the base dimension of the conical shaped receptor,the base ring having an inner circular opening with a diameter less thanthe base diameter of the conical shaped receptor.

FIG. 5 is a non-limiting diagram showing the cross section of adisplay-connector penetrating through the display panel and aconfiguration of the shaft with a diameter enlargement providing a stopfor the display panel. The shaft is shown configured with a conicalshaped tip having an apex at a forward end situated away from the shaftand a plurality of flexible tip extenders divided from each other andextending angularly back toward the shaft and away from the conicalshaped tip, the plurality of point extenders configured in a conicalshape having an apex comprised of the conical shaped tip and a basediameter at outer ends of the point extenders greater than a shaftdiameter at the point where the first rotation-point connector and theshaft are fastened together.

FIG. 6 is a non-limiting diagram showing four examples of display panelsof various shapes each mounted on an automotive wiper arm. The displaypanels are shown relatively level with respect to the ground while thewiper arm is rotating from right to left.

FIG. 7 is a non-limiting diagram showing the apparatus of the presentinvention mounted on other attachment points of an automotive vehicle.The arm-connector of the shaft positioned on the back-side of thedisplay panel (see FIG. 2) is configured to clasp the attachment pointsand maintain sufficient pressure to avoid rotation of the shaft aroundand generally perpendicular to the automotive wiper arm.

FIG. 8A is a non-limiting diagram showing the apparatus of the presentinvention mounted on a wiper arm and configured with two display panels.An end-view of a dual shaft connector bar is presented showing one oftwo arm-connectors attached to a wiper arm also shown in end-view.

FIG. 88 is a non-limiting diagram showing a top-view of a dual shaftconnector bar with shaft connectors inserted into display-connectorspositioned on the back side of two display panels. The dual shaftconnector bar is also shown in end-view with a connector adaptorinserted into one of two arm connectors, the second arm connector notbeing visible in the end-view. The connector adaptor may be used toadapt the arm-connector to various attachment points on an automotivevehicle.

FIG. 9 is a non-limiting diagram showing a right-angled shaftconfiguration with shaft-connector and a snap-connector for connectingto a wiper motor shaft. The right-angled shaft is shown connected to awiper motor shaft in a location between the wiper motor and the point ofwiper arm attachment to the wiper motor shaft. The right-angled shaftconfiguration may be used to mount relatively heavier and larger sizedisplay panels without impeding wiper arm rotational motion.

In detail: Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a non-limitingschematic illustration of one embodiment of the present invention 10illustrating how the apparatus of the present invention may typically bepositioned on a wiper arm 11 of a windshield wiper system located on therear 12 of a sport utility vehicle, and how text and graphics presentedon the display panel 13 may remain relatively level during rotationalmotion of the wiper arm 11, provided the display-connector is positionasymmetrically and or the lower portion of the display panel 13 isweighted. If the display-connector is substantially centered on the backside of the display panel 14, and the display panel 14 is notasymmetrically weighted, the orientation of the display panel 14 anddisplayed text or graphics will remain substantially unchanged withrespect to the wiper arm 11 as the wiper arm moves rotationally duringoperation of the windshield wiper system. Weighting the lower portion ofthe display panel 14 would tend to maintain a level orientation as shownfor display panel 13.

According to a one aspect, the present invention 10 as shown in FIG. 1provides a display device 13 mountable on an automotive wiper arm 11,comprising a display panel (FIG. 2, 20) having a front side forpresentation of text or graphics and a back side for mounting aconnector. Referring to FIG. 2, an arm-connector 24 is used for affixingthe display device (FIG. 1, 13) to the automotive wiper arm 25 (oralternative attachment point), and a shaft links the arm-connector 24 tothe display panel 20. A shaft-connector provides for affixing the shaft22 to the display panel 20, the shaft-connector comprising part of theshaft 22. A display-connector 21 affixes the shaft 22 to the displaypanel 20, the display-connector 21 comprising the connector positionedon the display panel 20 backside. Depending on the weight and/orconfiguration of the display panel, mere than one arm connector may beneeded and employed.

In other aspects of the present invention, the display-connector 21 maybe positioned on the backside of the display panel 20 as needed to fitthe shape of the display panel 20 which may be configured threedimensionally to fit the shape of text or graphics to be presented. Thedisplay panel may be fabricated using a translucent material suitablefor illumination using light emitting diodes (LED) powered by a batteryinstalled in the shaft or internally in the display panel. Depending onthe weight and/or configuration of the display panel, more than onedisplay connector may be needed and employed.

In another aspect of the present invention, the display panel 20 maycomprise a digital display enabling dynamic presentation orreconfiguration of text and/or graphics on the display panel 20, andwhich digital display 20 may be powered by an internal battery,connection to the vehicle electrical system, solar cells mounted on thedisplay panel 20, or a combination of these power sources.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a non-limiting schematicillustration of one embodiment of the present invention showing thedisplay panel 20 with a display-connector 21 positioned substantiallycentered on the back side and two different configurations of the shaft22 with shaft-connectors 23 a and 23 b and arm-connector 24. Thedisplay-connector 21 affixes the shaft 22 to the display panel 20, thedisplay-connector 21 accepting the shaft-connector. The shaft-connectors23 a and 23 b and the display-connector 21 are configured to locktogether after one is connected to the other, preventing separation ofthe display panel 20 from the shaft 22 during motion of an automotivewiper arm 25 (shown in cross-section) to which it may be attached by thearm-connector 24. The arm-connector 24 is configured to clasp anautomotive wiper arm 25 or other connection point on an automotivevehicle and maintain sufficient pressure to avoid rotation of the shaft22 around and generally perpendicular to the automotive wiper arm 25 orother connection point. Locking fasteners 26 may also be optionally usedto help secure the arm-connector 24 to an automotive wiper arm 25.

In another aspect of the present invention, the shaft 22 andarm-connector 24 may be comprised of relatively rigid plastic material,such as No. 2 durable plastic, having a total length in the range of 3to 6 inches, and a shaft diameter in the range of 0.5 to 1.0 inch. Inanother aspect of the present invention, the shaft-connectors 23 a or 23b, arm-connector 24, and shaft 22 may be configured from molded plasticas a single piece. The shaft may be configured to accept a battery.

Referring now to FIG. 3, there is shown a non-limiting schematicillustration of one embodiment of the present invention showing thedisplay panel 30 with an asymmetrically positioned display-connector 31on the back side and two configurations of the shaft 32 withshaft-connectors 33 a and 33 b and arm-connector 34. Thedisplay-connector affixes the shaft 32 to the display panel 30, thedisplay-connector 31 accepting the shaft-connector. The shaft-connectors33 a and 33 b and the display-connector 31 are configured to locktogether after one is connected to the other, preventing separation ofthe display panel 30 from the shaft 32 during motion of an automotivewiper arm 35 (shown in cross-section) to which it may be attached by thearm connector 34. The arm-connector 34 is configured to clasp anautomotive wiper arm 35 and maintain sufficient pressure to avoidrotation of the shaft 32 around and generally perpendicular to theautomotive wiper arm 35 as a result of airflow pressure on the displaypanel during vehicular motion. The shape of the arm-connector 34 may beconfigured in shapes that closely fit the cross-sectional shape ofvarious models of automotive wiper arms 35. Locking fasteners 36 mayalso be used to help secure the arm-connector 34 to an automotive wiperarm 35.

In another aspect of the present invention referring to FIG. 3, theshaft-connectors 33 a and 33 b and the display-connector 31 may berotation-point connectors configured to allow the display panel 30 torotate on the shaft 32. Asymmetric mounting and use of rotation pointconnectors serves to maintain orientation of the text or graphicspresent on the display panel relatively level with respect to the groundduring rotational movement of the automotive wiper arm 35. Optionally, aweight 37 may be incorporated on or into the lower portion of thedisplay panel substantially opposite the display-connector 31 to createa righting moment during rotational movement of the automotive wiper arm35.

In another aspect of the present invention, the shaft 32 andarm-connector 34 may be comprised of relatively rigid plastic material,such as No. 2 durable plastic, having a total length in the range of 3to 6 inches, and a shaft diameter in the range of 0.5 to 1.0 inch.

In another aspect of the present invention, the shaft-connectors 33 a or33 b, arm-connector 34, and shaft 32 may be configured from moldedplastic as a single piece.

Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown a non-limiting schematicillustration of one embodiment of the present invention showing thecross-section of the display-connector 41 asymmetrically mounted on theback side of the display panel 40. The display-connector 41 isinternally conical in shape and configured to receive theshaft-connector 42 a or 42 b. The display-connector 41 further comprisesan integrated base ring 43 situated at the base dimension of the conicalshaped receptor 44, the base ring having an inner circular opening 45with a diameter less than the base diameter of the conical shapedreceptor 44.

In another aspect of the present invention, the display panel 40 iscomprised of a plastic material and may be configured with raised ridgeson the backside to stiffen the display panel 40, the raised ridgesradiating out from the display-connector 41. The display panel 40 mayalso be shaped three dimensionally to substantially conform to the shapeof text and/or graphics presented on said display panel 40. The displaypanel 40 may comprise light reflective material. The display panel 40may comprise translucent material suitable for internal illumination.

Referring now to FIG. 5, there is shown a non-limiting schematicillustration of one embodiment of the present invention showing thecross section of a display-connector 51 penetrating through the displaypanel 50 and a configuration of the shaft 52 with a diameter enlargement53 providing a stop for the display panel 50. The shaft 52 is shownconfigured with a conical shaped tip 54 having an apex at a forward endsituated away from the shaft 52 and a plurality of flexible tipextenders 55 divided from each other and extending angularly back towardthe shaft 52 and away from the conical shaped tip 54, the plurality oftip extenders 55 configured in a conical shape having an apex comprisedof the conical shaped tip 54 and a base diameter at outer ends of thetip extenders 55 greater than a shaft 52 diameter at the point where thedisplay-connector and the shaft 52 are fastened together. A shaft 52 isalso shown configured with the diameter enlargement 53 and a conical tipconnector 56 having a base diameter sized to permit an initial insertionand connection to be made with the display-connector 51, andsufficiently larger than the diameter of the display-connector 51 tomaintain the connection during operation of a windshield wiper system.The display panel 50 may be shaped to substantially conform to the shapeof text and/or graphics presented on said display panel 50.

In another aspect of the present invention, the display panel 50 may becomprised of semi-flexible plastic material and may have a thickness inthe range of 0.25 inches to 0.75 inches, the thickness being needed tomaintain shape of the display panel 50 depending on the stiffnesscharacteristics of the semi-flexible plastic and the shape of thedisplay panel 50.

In another aspect of the present invention, the display panel 50 may becomprised of relatively rigid plastic material having a thickness in therange of 0.2 inches to 0.6 inches, the thickness being needed tomaintain shape of the display panel 50 depending on the stiffnesscharacteristics of the rigid plastic and the shape of the display panel50. The Display panel 40 may comprise light reflective material. Thedisplay panel 40 may comprise translucent material suitable for internalillumination.

Referring now to FIG. 6, there is shown a non-limiting schematicillustration of one embodiment of the present invention showing fourexamples of display panels of various shapes each mounted on anautomotive wiper arm 60. The display panels 61 are shown relativelylevel with respect to the ground while the wiper arm 60 is rotating fromright to left. The display panel 61 will tend to remain relatively levelduring rotational motion of the wiper arm 60, provided thedisplay-connector is connected as a rotation-point connector positionedasymmetrically and/or the lower portion of the display panel 61 isweighted. The display panels 61 may be shaped three dimensionally toconform substantially with the shape of the text or graphics presented,and may further comprise light reflective material or translucent. Thedisplay panel 61 and the display-connector may be configured from moldedplastic as a single piece.

Referring now to FIG. 7, there is shown a non-limiting diagram of theapparatus of the present invention 10 mounted on other attachment pointsof two types of automotive vehicles. The vehicles shown are a paneltruck 70 with swing open doors 71 having a locking lever 72 used as anattachment point; and a recreational vehicle 73 having a vertical ladder75 used as an attachment point. Various attachment points on other typesof vehicles and various configurations of the display panel of thepresent invention 10 are also anticipated. Attachment points may berotational or non-rotational relative to the vehicle. Display panels maybe configured in various shapes and sizes as needed to present aparticular graphic or text message.

Referring now to FIG. 8A there is shown a non-limiting diagram of theapparatus of the present invention mounted on a wiper arm 60 andconfigured with a first display panel 82 and a second display panel 83.An end-view of a dual shaft connector bar 80 is presented showing one oftwo arm-connectors 81 attached to a wiper arm 60 also shown in end-view.The display-connector 31 positioned on the back of display panel 82 isshown with a shaft connector of one shaft 84 of the dual shaft connectorbar 80 inserted. The second display panel 83 is shown in partial viewbehind the first display panel 82.

Referring now to FIG. 8B there is shown a non-limiting diagram of atop-view of a dual shaft connector bar 80 with shaft connectors insertedinto display-connectors 31 positioned on the back side of a firstdisplay panel 82 and a second display panel 83. The dual shaft connectorbar 80 is shown configured with two arm connectors 81. Shaft 84 connectsthe first display panel 82 to the dual shaft connector bar 80, Shaft 85connects the second display panel 83 to the dual shaft connector bar 80.The dual shaft connector bar 80 is also shown in end-view with aconnector adaptor 86 inserted into one of the two arm connectors 81, thesecond arm connector 81 not being visible in the end-view. The connectoradaptor 86 may be used to adapt the arm-connector 81 to variousattachment points on an automotive vehicle. A connector adaptor 86 asshown may be used to connect the dual shaft connector bar 80 to aconnection point such as the top edge of a side window or a sun visorabove the front wind shield on an automotive vehicle. A connectoradaptor 86 as shown may also be used to adapt a shaft connector of asingle shaft for attachment to a side window or sun visor of anautomotive vehicle.

FIG. 9 is a non-limiting diagram showing a right-angled shaftconfiguration with shaft 91 having a shaft-connector 97 and asnap-connector 92, the snap-connector 92 for connecting to a wiper motorshaft 93. The snap-connector 92 is shown connected to a wiper motorshaft 93 in a location between the wiper vehicle exterior surface 95.The snap-connector 92 may be configured to slide onto the wiper motorshaft 93 and clasp the shaft 93 with sufficient tension to remain inposition during wiper motor operation and vehicle motion. A lockingstrap 96 may also be employed to close the open end of the snapconnector 92 and completely surround the wiper motor shaft 93. Theright-angled shaft configuration may be used to mount relatively heavierand larger size display panels without impeding wiper arm rotationalmotion.

The present invention provides a new medium that can be ideallypositioned on an automotive vehicle for increased brand promotion andconnectivity with fans in the licensed brand products market, includingsports, popular music, and corporate image. Presentation of names,mottos, and logos related to promotion of all sports, popular music,corporate brands, entertainment events, movie characters, televisionprogramming, political candidates, and personal messages areanticipated. This medium provides a new way to directly deliver brandand personal messages on the road every day, as well as to participantsin tailgating or any outdoor entertainment event. Text and graphics canbe presented three dimensionally for licensed-products sales, includingall brands associated with the National Football League (NFL), MajorLeague Baseball, Collegiate sports (NCAA), the National BasketballAssociation (NBA), National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing(NASCAR), the National Hockey League (NHL), and American MotorcycleAssociation Pro Racing. Minor league and amateur sports teams, as wellas individual athletes can be promoted. Anything for which fans have apassion is anticipated.

The present invention provides a new medium for expressing personalmessages and end user passion through pre-configured text and graphics,or alternatively custom designed text and graphics. For added impact,the display panel may be illuminated by an internal or external lightsource such as Light-Emitting-Diodes powered by batteries, solar cells,vehicle power, or a combination of these. Dynamic presentation of textand graphics on automotive vehicles can be enabled in a new way byconfiguring the display panel of the present invention as an electronicdisplay controlled by pre-programmed instruction sets stored innon-transient memory incorporated in the display panel. Alternatively,said instruction sets may be received from a remote source by a wirelesscommunication device electronically connected to the display panel, andwritten into said memory. The present invention may be attached at leastto the rear wiper arm of any of the millions of sport utility vehicles(SUVs) and crossover vehicles in operation and manufactured every year.The present invention may also be attached to millions of othervehicles, including trucks (private and commercial), recreationalvehicles, public buses, personal transport vehicles, motorcycles, andgolf cars.

While specific embodiments of the present invention have been describedand illustrated, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art thatnumerous modifications and variations can be made without departing fromthe scope of the invention as defined in the appended claims. It isunderstood that the words that have been used are words of descriptionand illustration, rather than words of limitation. Although theinvention has been described with reference to particular means,materials and embodiments, the invention is not intended to be limitedto the particulars disclosed; rather, the invention extends to allfunctionally equivalent structures, methods and uses, such as are withinthe scope of the appended claims.

We claim:
 1. A display device mountable on an automotive wiper armpositioned on a rear windshield wiper assembly of an automotive vehicle,said wiper assembly including a motor, a motor-shaft, wiper arm, andwiper blade, comprising: a display panel having a front side forpresentation of text or graphics and a back side for positioning aconnector; an arm-connector for affixing said display device to saidautomotive wiper arm; a shaft for linking said arm-connector to saiddisplay panel; a shaft-connector for affixing said shaft to said displaypanel, said shaft-connector comprising part of said shaft; adisplay-connector for affixing said shaft-connector to said displaypanel, said display-connector positioned on or penetrating through saiddisplay panel backside; wherein said arm-connector is configured toattach to said automotive wiper arm and maintain sufficient connectivepressure to avoid substantial rotation of said shaft around saidautomotive wiper arm as a result of airflow pressure on said displaypanel during vehicular motion; wherein said shaft-connector is a firstrotation-point connector and said display-connector is a secondrotation-point connector, and said second rotation-point connector ispositioned asymmetrically on said display panel; wherein said firstrotation-point connector is configured to insert into said secondrotation-point connector and lock into said second rotation-pointconnector substantially preventing separation after connecting saidfirst rotation-point connector to said second rotation-point connector,and wherein said first and second rotation-point connectors areconfigured to allow said display panel to rotate with respect to saidshaft during rotational movement of said automotive wiper arm.
 2. Thedisplay device of claim 1, wherein said first rotation-point connectoris conical in shape having an apex at a forward end away from said shaftand a base diameter greater than a shaft diameter at the point wheresaid first rotation-point connector and said shaft are fastenedtogether.
 3. The display device of claim 2, wherein said secondrotation-point connector comprises a conical shaped receptor configuredto receive said first rotation-point connector, said secondrotation-point connector further comprising an integrated base ringsituated at the base dimension of said conical shaped receptor, saidbase ring having an inner circular opening with a diameter less thansaid base diameter.
 4. The display device of claim 1, wherein saiddisplay panel is weighted to promote a pendulum effect substantiallypositioning the second rotation-point connector above a lower portion ofsaid display throughout the range of motion of said automotive wiper armduring operation.
 5. The display device of claim 1, wherein said firstrotation-point connector comprises a conical shaped tip having an apexat a forward end situated away from said shaft and a plurality offlexible tip extenders divided from each other and extending angularlyback toward said shaft and away from said conical shaped tip, saidplurality of point extenders configured in a conical shape having anapex comprised of said conical shaped tip and a base diameter at outerends of said point extenders greater than a shaft diameter at the pointwhere said first rotation-point connector and said shaft are fastenedtogether.
 6. The display device of claim 5, wherein said secondrotation-point connector comprises a conical shaped receptor configuredto receive said first rotation-point connector, said secondrotation-point connector further comprising an integrated base ringsituated at the base dimension of said conical shaped receptor, saidbase ring having an inner circular opening with a diameter less thansaid base diameter comprised of said outer ends of said point extenders.7. A display system mountable on a rear windshield wiper assembly of anautomotive vehicle, said wiper assembly including a motor, amotor-shaft, wiper arm, and wiper blade, said display system comprising:a display panel having a front side for presentation of at least one oftext and graphics and a back side for positioning a display-connector; aplurality of linking-connectors for affixing said display panel to saidrear windshield wiper assembly, each said linking-connector configuredwith an assembly-connector, a shaft, and a shaft-connector, saidassembly-connector for connecting said shaft to said wiper assembly, andsaid shaft-connector for connecting said shaft to saiddisplay-connector; wherein said display-connector comprises part of saiddisplay panel; wherein said plurality of linking-connectors includelinking connectors connectable to said motor-shaft or said wiper-arm;wherein said shaft-connector and said display-connector are configuredto lock together after one is connected to the other, preventingseparation of said display panel from said shaft during motion of saidautomotive vehicle and motion of said wiper arm of said windshield wiperassembly, and wherein said assembly-connector is configured to claspsaid windshield wiper assembly and maintain sufficient pressure to avoiddisconnecting as a result of airflow pressure on said display panelduring vehicular motion or said motor-shaft rotation.
 8. The displaysystem of claim 7, wherein at least one of said plurality of linkingconnectors is configured for affixing said display panel to said wiperarm of said windshield wiper assembly.
 9. The display system of claim 7,wherein at least one of said plurality of linking connectors isconfigured for affixing said display panel to said motor-shaft of saidwindshield wiper assembly.
 10. The display system of claim 7, whereinsaid display-connector is positioned asymmetrically on said displaypanel backside and comprises part of said display panel.
 11. The displaysystem of claim 7, wherein said display-connector penetrates throughsaid backside of said display panel.
 12. The display system of claim 7,wherein said shaft-connector is a first rotation-point connector andsaid display-connector is a second rotation-point connector, said firstrotation-point connector is configured to insert into said secondrotation-point connector; wherein said first and second rotation-pointconnectors are configured to allow said display panel to rotate withrespect to said shaft during rotational movement of said motor-shaft,and wherein visual orientation of said text or said graphics present onsaid display panel is maintained relatively unchanged with respect tothe ground during operation of said windshield wiper assembly.
 13. Thedisplay system of claim 12, wherein said display panel is weighted topromote a pendulum effect substantially maintaining positioning of thesecond rotation-point connector above a lower portion of said displaythroughout the range of motion of said automotive wiper arm duringoperation.
 14. The display system of claim 12, wherein said firstrotation-point connector is conical in shape having an apex at a forwardend away from said shaft and a base diameter greater than a shaftdiameter at the point where said first rotation-point connector and saidshaft are fastened together, and wherein said second rotation-pointconnector comprises a conical shaped receptor configured to receive saidfirst rotation-point connector, said second rotation-point connectorfurther comprising an integrated base ring situated at the basedimension of said conical shaped receptor, said base ring having aninner circular opening with a diameter less than said base diameter. 15.The display system of claim 12, wherein said first rotation-pointconnector comprises a conical shaped tip having an apex at a forward endsituated away from said shaft and a plurality of flexible tip extendersdivided from each other and extending angularly back toward said shaftand away from said conical shaped tip, said plurality of point extendersconfigured in a conical shape having an apex comprised of said conicalshaped tip and a base diameter at outer ends of said point extendersgreater than a shaft diameter at the point where said firstrotation-point connector and said shaft are fastened together, andwherein said second rotation-point connector comprises a conical shapedreceptor configured to receive said first rotation-point connector, saidsecond rotation-point connector further comprising an integrated basering situated at the base dimension of said conical shaped receptor,said base ring having an inner circular opening with a diameter lessthan said base diameter comprised of said outer ends of said pointextenders.
 16. The display system of claim 12, wherein said displaypanel is comprised of plastic material having a thickness preferably inthe range of 0.25 inches to 1.5 inches, the thickness needed to maintainshape of said display panel depending on the stiffness characteristicsof said plastic and the shape of the display panel.
 17. The displaysystem of claim 16, wherein said display panel further comprises one oftranslucent or light reflective material.
 18. The display system ofclaim 16, wherein said display panel is shaped to substantially conformto the shape of text and graphics presented on said display panel. 19.The display system of claim 12, wherein the display panel furthercomprises a digital display enabling dynamic presentation orreconfiguration of text and/or graphics on the display panel, and whichdigital display may be powered by an internal battery, connection to thevehicle electrical system, solar cells mounted on the display panel, ora combination of these power sources.
 20. The display system of claim19, wherein operation of said display panel is controlled from awireless device capable of transmitting a control signal from saidwireless device to said display panel and said display panel isconfigured to receive said control signal.